Overview

Hype:

The trek along the Mamalahoa Trail, or King's Trail, leads to some of the most well-preserved petroglyphs on the island. Nearly 30,000 carvings of animals and people were left in old pahoehoe lava flows by the ancient Hawaiians. The trail, built in the mid-19th century for horse travel, used to stretch 32 miles from Kailua Kona north to Puako. To access the trail park in the shopping center lot near the gas station and walk towards the golf course and small pond. Signs will lead you to the trailhead. Wear sturdy shoes for hiking on the lava trail and bring water. There are several historical signs along the way to guide you. Try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun. Do not make rubbings of petroglyphs as this can wear them away and destroy them.

Trail Condition: Class 0 (Trail is paved. No elevation gain.)

Time: 1 hour

Length: 1.5 miles round trip

Elevation Gain: Negligible

Fees: None

Recommended Ages:

	0-3
	4-11
	12-19
	20-49
	50-69
	70+

Recommended Months to Visit:

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Links: www.coffeetimes.com

Getting There

Navigate to 19.915243, -155.881230.

Maps

Closest City or Region: Big Island, Hawaii

Coordinates: 19.915243, -155.881230

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June 3, 2018 Trip Report

By Jeremy Dye

Trip Members

Jeremy Dye, Tara Dye,

Story

We really enjoed the little hike out to the Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve even though it was a hot afternoon. We were really surprised how many petroglyphs there were.

Pictures